Carefree Childhood Days

A Memory of Skegness.

I grew up in the Winthorpe area & recall strolling along the Avenue on our way to the beach. Holding tightly to my mothers hand it was always an exciting adventure. Clutching my bucket & spade I impatiently tugged my mum along eager to reach the sandy shore. As we approached the promenade I could taste the bitter sweetness of the salty air mingling with the irresistible aroma of malt vinegar emanating from the local fish & chip restaurant.
Racing across the shimmering sands searching the rock pools for all manner of fascinating creatures. Digging & sifting the fine yet coarse grains between my fingers & tickling my toes. Splashing in the waves caressing the shoreline; sensing the rhythmn of the tides; in perfect accord with the elements. A symphony of mesmerising beauty punctuated by the shrill scream of the gulls- the soundtrack of my childhood.
On our way home we would climb the staggered steps to the left of the photograph. Standing on tip-toe I would gaze at the displays in the shop windows. Tapping on the glass & pointing trying to convince mum I couldn't live without yet another doll to add to the dozens I already have.
Reluctantly I am extricated from the row of illuminated, wondrous, glazed galleries with their irresistible array of playthings. Slowly we trudge homewards me dragging my feet not wanting to reach the front door. As mum turns the key she presses into my hand a smooth white shell & promises to take me to the beach again soon.